Walmart to open first SA store in the West Rand

Walmart will open its first store in South Africa at the Clearwater Mall, located in the West Rand in Johannesburg.

The company made the announcement in a media release, confirming its first store, despite some articles locally claiming it will be open in Fourways Mall.

Walmart South Africa promises “everyday low prices” on its products, adding that customers don’t have to wait for short-term promotions or worry about fluctuating prices.

Products it will carry include fresh and frozen food groceries and consumables, a curated health and beauty section, apparel and baby, sports and outdoor, homeware, electronics, toys and seasonal departments, it says.

The company adds that the store’s product offering will be sourced from local suppliers, complemented by a curated selection of global brands, including Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful range of small appliances. This includes air fryers, kettles, blenders, toasters, and stand mixers.

Miles van Rensburg, Massmart president and CEO says it will bring customers Walmart’s promise of Every Day Low Prices both in-store and online, with the best of global retail and a local touch.

“Since announcing the arrival of the first Walmart-branded stores in South Africa, the excitement has been incredible, and our team is proud to deliver this new and meaningful chapter in South African retail,” says van Rensburg.

Merchandise Vice President Mark Scott adds that it will expand on the role of global brands in the product department: “While Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful range delivers this in spectacular fashion, we also see it in simple moments, for example, our sweets and confectionery aisle features international favourites such as Mike & Ike, Reese’s, Warheads, and Nerds-brands not commonly found in South Africa.”

Walmart SA has announced its Clearwater Mall store manager will be led by Onicca Mothapo, a retail professional bringing in 20 years of experience.

Mothapo says she is proud of its partnership with Africa Food for Thought. “Through this initiative our store will be supporting eight early childhood development centres in the broader community, starting with donations of appliances, catering equipment and multi-purpose furniture.”

The Walmart Clearwater Store will be located at the Clearwater Mall on Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christian de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort. And announcement will be made in the coming weeks around its opening date.